Housing estate amendments at Land at Bank Hey Farm, Heys Lane, Blackburn

“The application site (the site) measures approximately 41 hectares (ha) in area, of which 32.2ha comprises the proposed full permission element of the application and 9.26ha the outline element.”

“The site is located on the southern edge of Blackburn, approximately three kilometres from Blackburn town centre and 600 metres west of junction 4 of the M65 motorway. It comprises of largely agricultural land which is used principally for grazing. The site is bordered to the north and east by existing residential areas. The western boundary is formed by Heys Lane, beyond which lies agricultural land and then the Gib Lane development.”

“Planning permission granted under LPA reference 10/23/0269 was issued on 26 th July 2024 for: Full Planning Permission for a phased development for the erection of 553 No. residential dwellings (Use Class C3) together with associated landscaping, open space, access and infrastructure; and Outline Planning Permission for up to 45 dwellings with all matters reserved except access.”

“Permission for a subsequent material amendment / s73 application was issued on 19 th September 2024 (ref. 10/24/0735) to vary condition no. 15 (Construction & Environmental Management Plan). It is this permission which this application seeks to vary.”

“Members are recommended to approve this application, detailed assessment of which finds that the proposed amendments to be minor in context and acceptable.”

“Technical issues have been addressed through the application or are capable of being controlled or mitigated by planning conditions and the Section 106 Agreement.”

“A site wide drainage strategy is being considered under discharge of application reference 10/25/1061, outside of the scope of this assessment. A drainage scheme is initially consented by the Council’s Drainage consultee, as Lead Local Flood Authority and United Utilities. The amended drainage strategy which prompts the replan of houses subject to this application, is…”

“Design / Character and Appearance Policy CP8 confirms the need for all new development to be of a high standard consistent with principles set out in the National Design Guide, and the National Model Design Code, and relevant local design guidance. Development that is not well designed will be refused.”

“Consultation of the public / neighbours and Ward Councillors was undertaken. 22 letters were posted to the neighbouring addresses on 17/11/2025 and 22/01/2026, site notices were displayed and a press notice was published on 04/12/2025. 7 objections to the application were received - see Summary of Representations, at paragraph 9.0.”

“That subject to a Section 106 Agreement to secure payment of a commuted sum totalling £7,556,401 for the following (summary) measures necessary to support the application: highway improvement works and sustainable transport initiatives; additional primary school places in West Blackburn; additional General Practice capacity at Griffin Lodge (or an alternative local facility); and improved sports facilities and conditions the application be approved subject to the conditions…”

“The following conditions have been varied since publication of the main report:”